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New EpiPen is first epinephrine auto-injector with automatic needle protection

MISSISSAUGA, ON, April 14 /CNW/ - King Pharmaceuticals Canada today announced the launch of its new EpiPen(R) and EpiPen(R) Jr (0.3 an d 0.15 mg epinephrine) Auto-Injectors, featuring an enhanced, more user-friendly design and automatic needle protection, making it easier for anyone managing the risk of anaphylaxis to administer epinephrine quickly in an emergency.

While maintaining the simplicity, reliability and same basic function of the original EpiPen - Canada's most-prescribed epinephrine auto-injector - the new EpiPen is now the only epinephrine auto-injector with built-in needle protection before, during, and after use. The new EpiPen also features a new, easy-grip body, easy-to-read instructions as well as contrasting colours for easy orientation to the needle end.

"King Pharmaceuticals is proud to introduce a new and improved format for the EpiPen Auto-Injector, which is designed to let patients manage the risk of anaphylaxis by delivering an improved design that continues to provide simplicity in a crisis," said Tom Handel, Senior Vice President, Commercial Pharmaceuticals. "The new EpiPen combines original EpiPen features that Canadians have come to rely on with enhanced features such as advanced, fully integrated needle protection."

The new EpiPen's automatic needle protection feature prevents access to the needle end after use. When the EpiPen is removed from the injection site, the needle cover automatically extends to cover the injection needle. The user does not see the needle before, during or after injection. Since patients do not typically administer EpiPen in a health facility, needle protection is an important new safety enhancement - the needle cover not only protects the patient from needle sticks but also their care giver, family members, friends or anyone making contact to assist the patient.

"The prompt and correct administration of epinephrine during a severe allergic reaction can help save lives. Any advances in auto-injector technology that simplify the process will provide an even greater level of safety for those managing anaphylaxis," said Dr. Susan Waserman, Allergist/Clinical Immunologist and Professor of Medicine, McMaster University. "Ease of use and simplicity in a crisis can make a significant difference for users during a health emergency."

The new EpiPen Auto-Injector includes the following features:

- An ergonomically designed, easier-to-grasp oval barrel featuring
clearly illustrated instructions to promote proper use. The new oval
shape also prevents the device from rolling out of reach in an
emergency;
- Carrier with one-step, flip-top cap that allows for quick access to
the EpiPen;
- Contrasting color-coded design. The bright orange tapered needle end
is labeled 'needle end,' while bright blue is used to quickly
identify EpiPen's safety release;
- Advanced, fully integrated needle protection that benefits both users
and anyone coming in contact with a used EpiPen. The new automatic
needle cover deploys and locks after use, preventing access to the
contaminated needle;
- Visual indicator reveals if the auto-injector has been used.

The basic internal function of the original EpiPen that users have come to rely on remains unchanged in the new design, including two-step activation, dosage (EpiPen 0.3 mg and EpiPen Jr. 0.15 mg), needle gauge, injection depth, expiry period and price.

The new EpiPen Auto-Injector will be available at drug stores across Canada beginning in Spring, 2010. Demonstrators and trainers as well as educational materials, how-to-use video and full details on the new EpiPen will be available online at www.EpiPen.ca.

About Anaphylaxis

One to two percent of Canada's population - about 600,000 Canadians - are at risk of severe allergies to food and other triggers. Anaphylaxis is the most severe and life-threatening allergic event and can result in death. Occurrence is unpredictable in at-risk patients and mild allergic symptoms can be followed by life-threatening reaction. Delay of treatment with epinephrine is the number one cause of death in patients experiencing anaphylaxis. Epinephrine is the drug of choice for the emergency treatment of severe allergic reactions.

About King Pharmaceuticals Canada

King Pharmaceuticals, with offices in Mississauga, Ont. and headquartered in Bristol, Tennessee, is a vertically integrated branded pharmaceutical company. King, an S&P 500 Index company, seeks to capitalize on opportunities in the pharmaceutical industry through the development, including through in-licensing arrangements and acquisitions, of novel branded prescription pharmaceutical products and technologies that complement the Company's focus in specialty-driven markets, particularly neuroscience and hospital. King's wholly-owned subsidiary, Alpharma, Inc., is also a leader in the development, registration, manufacture and marketing of pharmaceutical products for food producing animals.